10+ Best Popular Books for 12-13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for your tween? Finding the right book that captures the imagination and interests of 12-13-year-olds can be a game-changer. Our curated list of popular books for 12-13-year-olds is packed with exciting choices that are sure to keep them hooked. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will not only entertain but also inspire young readers.

Fun Popular Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This is the first book in the beloved Harry Potter series, where young Harry learns that he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends and enemies and discovers his own daunting destiny.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gateway to a magical world that promotes imagination, friendship, and courage. The story is engaging and perfect for getting tweens excited about reading.
  • Perfect for: Fantasy lovers and anyone who enjoys stories about magic and adventure.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Greek mythology with modern adventure, making it educational yet extremely fun to read.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love mythology and action-packed stories.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, as he attends a mainstream elementary school for the first time and faces challenges and triumphs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches empathy and the importance of accepting others, making it a heartwarming read that also offers important life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uplifting stories and learning about diverse experiences.

• The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
  • Synopsis: After the murder of his family, a toddler wanders into a graveyard where the ghosts and other supernatural residents agree to raise him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and mysterious tale that captures the imagination while dealing with themes of growth and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spooky stories with a strong sense of adventure.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center, where he digs large holes every day and uncovers the secret behind why the warden is so interested in anything the boys find.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inventive and unique story that mixes adventure with a historical mystery. Plus, it's a great way to introduce themes of fate and justice.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good mystery and stories about friendship and perseverance.

• The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a city shrouded in darkness, two children discover clues that could lead them to the outside world they never knew existed.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that explores the idea of questioning the status quo and finding your own path.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are fans of science fiction and thrilling quests.

Educational Popular Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: This novel follows twelve-year-old Jonas who lives in a seemingly ideal, if colorless, world of conformity and contentment. When he begins to spend time with The Giver, who is the sole keeper of the community's memories, Jonas discovers the dark and deadly truths of his community's secret past. With this newfound knowledge, he realizes the stakes are higher than imagined, a choice that could change his life forever.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, understanding of dystopian literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound look at the importance of memory, individuality, and freedom, which are crucial themes for young readers to explore.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in thought-provoking stories and ethical questions.

• Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story is about Jess Aarons and Leslie Burke, two outsiders who create a magical forest kingdom called Terabithia, where they reign as king and queen. Their friendship helps them deal with the realities of their lives, until a tragedy strikes that changes everything.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Imagination, friendship dynamics, dealing with loss
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that addresses the coping mechanisms children can develop through imagination and the reality of grief and loss.
  • Perfect for: Kids who appreciate deep, emotional stories and the blending of fantasy with real-life challenges.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster, illustrated by Jules Feiffer
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Bored and disinterested in his everyday life, young Milo receives a mysterious tollbooth that transports him to the Lands Beyond, a surreal region filled with odd characters and peculiar adventures. The journey not only brings excitement but also imparts valuable lessons.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Vocabulary, reading comprehension, appreciation for puns and wordplay
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively blends fantasy and education, encouraging readers to find joy and significance in learning.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy clever wordplay, whimsical adventures, and learning in a fun way.

• From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg
  • Genre(s): Mystery, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Claudia Kincaid, a suburban girl, decides to run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, taking her younger brother Jamie with her. There, they become involved in a mystery involving a statue possibly sculpted by Michelangelo.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, historical knowledge about art, budgeting and planning
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a tantalizing mystery and provides a glimpse into the workings of a museum and the study of art.
  • Perfect for: Young detectives and any kid who's dreamed of a museum adventure.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen, Denmark during World War II, this story follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis and flee to safety in Sweden.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, ethical decision-making, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an accessible introduction to the history of World War II and the Holocaust, teaching important lessons about courage and the impact of individual actions.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and stories of heroism and resistance.

Challenging Popular Books for 12-13-Year-Olds

• Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: This epic tale follows Ishmael's voyage on the whaling ship, Pequod, commanded by the obsessive Captain Ahab who is on a quest to seek revenge on Moby Dick, the giant white sperm whale.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative uses complex language, diverse narrative styles, and delves into intricate themes of fate, existence, and morality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound literary classic that challenges readers to think deeply about human nature and our place in the world.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who enjoy complex narratives and philosophical questions.

• Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This beloved novel follows the lives of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—and their journey from childhood to womanhood in post-Civil War America.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores a range of complex themes such as poverty, gender roles, and individuality versus societal expectations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless lessons about love, family, and personal aspirations, encouraging readers to consider their own paths in life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories about family dynamics and personal growth.

• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
  • Genre(s): Classic, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Mary Lennox, a sour-faced and unloved girl, transforms when she discovers a neglected garden on her uncle’s estate and decides to restore it, finding healing and friendship in the process.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text features rich, descriptive language and explores deep themes of loss, healing, and transformation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautiful story of redemption and the power of nature and nurture to heal the body and soul.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of transformation and the magic of nature.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future society where books are banned and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question his role and the values of the society he lives in.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents complex themes of censorship, the role of technology in society, and the importance of intellectual freedom.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages critical thinking about freedom, knowledge, and resistance against oppressive norms.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in science fiction and exploring profound social and ethical questions.

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story, set in the Depression-era South, follows young Scout Finch and her father, Atticus, who defends a black man wrongly accused of raping a white woman.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with serious themes of racial injustice, moral growth, and ethical dilemmas in a complex societal setting.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful narrative that fosters understanding of historical racial issues and the importance of standing up for what is right.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are looking to understand historical perspectives on race and justice and appreciate strong, moral characters.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're between 12 and 13 years old and looking to dive into some awesome books, it's a great idea to develop some solid reading habits along the way. Here are a few exercises that can help you get the most out of your reading adventures. Let's get started!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or a set time to read each day.
  • How it helps: Ensures consistent reading and can make reading a habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and enhances focus on reading.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and comfortable, perhaps add a cozy chair or some cushions.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books regularly.
  • How it helps: Encourages reading and provides an opportunity to share thoughts and ideas.
  • Tips: If there isn't a book club at your school or library, consider starting one with friends!

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize technology to read ebooks or listen to audiobooks.
  • How it helps: Makes reading accessible anywhere and anytime.
  • Tips: Many libraries offer free access to apps like OverDrive or Libby where you can borrow digital books.

• Challenge Yourself With a Reading List
  • What it is: Create a list of books you want to read over a certain period.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and excited about reaching your reading goals.
  • Tips: Include a variety of genres to keep things interesting and broaden your horizons.

• Reflect on What You Read
  • What it is: Spend a few minutes thinking about the book after you finish reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and memory of the book.
  • Tips: Consider discussing the book with others or writing a short review to deepen your understanding.

These exercises aren't just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a lifelong reader. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you'll not only enhance your reading skills but also discover new worlds and stories. Happy reading!